Khang Rinpoche – Mt. Kailash by Tomoyo Ihaya | Photo courtesy of Tomoyo Ihaya
While some artists approach art merely conceptually, literally or spontaneously, Tomoyo Ihaya, an internationally renowned artist, blends many approaches. Her primary source of inspiration comes from direct experience, and that is precisely why she has been a resident artist in several different countries. Experience brings her the kind of passion she needs in order to create.
“Building Bridges – over a Hundred of Rivers” showcases drawings and collage inspired by Ihaya’s traveling for artistic research in India over the course of 9 years. Daily chores and rituals around water are the main themes of the pieces on display.
Born in Tsu-City, Mie (Japan) Tomoyo Ihaya came to Canada 15 years ago. She has studied studio arts at major Canadian institutes, such as Capilano University and Emily Carr University of Arts and Design. Her curiosity about cross-cultural themes led her to travel the world through international artist-in-residency programs in India, Thailand, the U.S. (Utah) and Canada (Edmonton). She has received a number of awards and project grants from the BC Arts Council and the Alberta Foundation for the Arts. Her delicate and simple imagery has underlying complex messages, encompassing spiritual, political and psychological aspects.
Tomoyo Ihaya | Photo courtesy of Tomoyo Ihaya
“I make art only when there is a very strong drive derived from heartfelt experience,” says the Canadian-Japanese artist.
Tomoyo Ihaya has traveled to India fifteen times in the past years. In the meantime, she developed a kinship bond with the local people, some of whom were refugees who have been forced into crossing borders, leaving their home country. Having spent time in small villages in remote areas of the Himalayas made Ihaya come across an important issue in the region – water. Through the eyes of a witness, she portrays how people’s routines revolve around water – an essential of life – and ultimately, what life is all about.
Building bridges
The title of Tomoyo Ihaya’s current exhibition relates to the fact that in her journeys she has encountered numerous rivers and crossed many bridges to reach communities. She also met people who had to cross metaphorical bridges to find new opportunities in life. Therefore those bridges have a symbolic meaning for her.
“A bridge is a symbol of hope. It can be hope of a new life somewhere else or hope of coming back to one’s homeland,” she explains.
“We can also make bridges to be able to cross, to break the walls,” adds Ihaya.
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden
After having exhibited in various art galleries in the Vancouver area, Ihaya is showing her artwork at the Vancouver Chinese Garden for the first time. According to her, the garden is an ideal place and it definitely relates to her work. She has often thought about how art could bring peace to our troubled world, therefore such a peaceful environment resonates with her intention as an artist.
“I have shown these drawings previously in India. I’m glad I can show them now in the garden, because it is an oasis, a peaceful place where people can go to meditate and possibly transform their suffering,” says Ihaya.
After having crossed so many bridges, and having traveled the seas Ihaya is happy to be back in Canada.
“Many people have supported me here and I don’t often get to exhibit in Vancouver because I’m usually away on travels. So, it’s like a homecoming,” she explains.
Tomoyo Ihaya’s pieces will be on display at the Vancouver Chinese Garden until Dec. 3.
Building Bridges: Over a Hundred Rivers
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden
Nov 5–Dec 3
578 Carrall St., Vancouver
www.vancouverchinesegarden.com
